OpenFlow Adaptor for Hybrid Network Protocol Translation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Software Defined Networks (SDNs) face compatibility issues between OpenFlow (OF) and Non-OpenFlow (NOF) network elements, as OF technology is not backwards compatible with NOF systems, leading to operational incompatibility and the inability to control hybrid networks comprising both OF and NOF switches.
Innovation Solution
An OpenFlow adaptor is introduced, capable of translating OpenFlow messages into formats supported by NOF switches and vice versa, enabling an OpenFlow controller to manage hybrid networks by acting as a bridge between OF and NOF switches through message translation and topology discovery mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If OpenFlow messages are used to control network elements, then centralized control and network simplification are achieved, but compatibility with Non-OpenFlow switches is lost
Solution Approach 1:
An OpenFlow adaptor is introduced as an intermediary component that sits between the OpenFlow controller and Non-OpenFlow network elements. The adaptor translates OpenFlow protocol messages into formats compatible with NOF switches, enabling centralized control to extend to legacy devices without requiring them to natively support OpenFlow. This mediator approach resolves the contradiction by maintaining the centralized control architecture while adding compatibility through protocol translation.
2Ease of operation
If OpenFlow protocol is implemented, then remote and dynamic NE configuration is enabled, but operational incompatibility with legacy NOF systems occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The OpenFlow adaptor dynamically changes protocol parameters by translating message formats, encoding schemes, and command structures between OpenFlow and NOF protocols. This parameter transformation allows the system to maintain remote configuration capabilities while adapting to the specific operational requirements of legacy NOF switches, thereby resolving the incompatibility issue.
3Adaptability or versatility
If hybrid networks with both OF and NOF switches are deployed, then network legacy support is maintained, but unified control capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The OpenFlow adaptor is designed with multi-functionality to handle multiple protocol translations, topology discovery methods, and control modes (centralized and distributed). This universal design allows a single adaptor implementation to support diverse NOF switch types and maintain unified control across heterogeneous network environments, reducing overall system complexity despite the hybrid architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
An OpenFlow (OF) adaptor comprising at least one OF port configured to communicate with an OF Controller, at least one Non-OF (NOF) port configured to communicate with a NOF switch, and at least one processor coupled to the OF port and the NOF port and configured to receive a first OF message comprising network data from the OF controller via the OF port, translate the first OF message into a first NOF message, wherein the first NOF message comprises network data analogous to the first OF message network data encoded in a format supported by the NOF switch, and transmit the first NOF message toward the NOF switch via the NOF port.